Definition

A Pre-Departure Clearance (PDC) is a route clearance received by text rather than by radio.

Description

Many airports are now equipped with a terminal data link system (TDLS) that enables pre-departure clearances (PDCs) to be delivered via the aircraft communications, addressing and reporting system (ACARS). Typically, when participating pilots initialize their flight management systems (FMS) with the flight plan number and other information, the PDC is automatically delivered in text form. If the aircraft is not equipped for ACARS, the PDC can also be delivered via a printer at the departure gate. In other cases, a PDC can be delivered via email or text message to a cell phone number. Delivery of a clearance in this manner eliminates the possibility of readback/hearback errors. (See ATC Clearance Error.)

No acknowledgment of receipt or readback is required for a PDC. A PDC is valid for two hours after the filed departure time.

Procedure

As described above, FMS initialization within 30 minutes of departure time normally triggers PDC delivery. However, air traffic control (ATC) must manually enter the clearance, so occasionally flight crews will have to call clearance delivery or ground control as a reminder. Specific symbology within the PDC will alert pilots if the cleared route is different from the filed route. It is important that pilots watch for different routing. 

NOTE: U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) procedures for PDCs do not permit amended or revised flight plans to be transmitted. However, a flight plan generated in the tower with a route assigned by automation is not considered revised or amended and may be transmitted. If the route clearance changes after receipt of a PDC, flight crews can expect a radio call from ATC. A typical scenario can happen during taxi for departure, when ground control will direct the crew to contact clearance delivery.

If ATC must delay the flight for weather or other considerations, the PDC will include an expected departure clearance time (EDCT). The EDCT is a takeoff time, and not a pushback time, so crews should plan accordingly. Crews are expected to depart no earlier than five minutes prior to the EDCT and no later than five minutes after. Missing an EDCT time can cause a considerable further delay. Pilots should also remain aware that in the event of a dynamic weather situation, EDCTs can change after initial receipt of the PDC.

Further Reading

• U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Order JO 7110.113G, Procedures for Issuing Automated Clearances